Portable Phone Having Electro Optic Image Projection System And Orientation Sensing Device

ABSTRACT

A portable phone includes a handset and a data projection system configured to form a visual image of data, such as caller waiting ID data, on a viewing surface viewable by a user during a two way conversation. The handset also includes a speaker, a microphone, conventional phone circuitry and a keyboard. The data projection system is configured to receive signals from the phone circuitry, to generate a pattern representative of the data, to process the pattern into a mirror image of the visual image, and to project the mirror image from a bottom end surface of the handset. The projection system includes an electro optic system for generating the pattern, and an optics system for projecting the mirror image onto the viewing surface. 
     A method for projecting data in a portable phone includes the steps of: providing the handset with the data projection system, conducting a two way conversation with the handset held against the head of the user, and forming the visual image on the viewing surface during the two way conversation with the handset held against the head. The method can also include the steps of manipulating the handset and a body part to locate and focus the visual image, sensing an orientation of the handset during the two way conversation, and orienting the visual image as a function of the sensing step.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of Ser. No. 11/049,458 filed Feb. 2,2005, U.S. Pat. No. 7,539,513.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

This invention relates generally to portable communications devices, andmore particularly to portable phones, such as cordless phones andcellular phones.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Portable phones are widely used for communicating and transmittinginformation between users. Portable phones include cordless phones whichreceive signals from a base station controlled by a user over arelatively short range, typically on a frequency of 900 MHz, 2.4 Ghz or5.8 GHz. Portable phones also include cellular phones for a greaterrange, which typically receive signals from a telecommunications networkusing various platforms, such as ANALOG, CDMA, TDMA and GSM. Portablephones also include satellite phones, where the portable phone is indirect transmission to and from a communications satellite orbiting theearth, such as the “GLOBAL STAR” system and the “IRIDIUM” system.

Some portable phones employ a handset configured for holding in one handand placement against the user's head. A conventional handset for aportable phone includes a speaker configured for placement proximate tothe ear, and a microphone configured for placement proximate to themouth.

The handset can also include a face having a key pad, and a direct viewdisplay configured to display a visual image of data in an alphanumericor video format. Some types of data that can be visually displayed onthe direct view display are “caller waiting ID” data. Moreover, the datacan be displayed, even when the user is conducting a two wayconversation with the handset held against the head. For example, duringa two way conversation, the data can include the originating phonenumber of an incoming call.

One limitation of a conventional handset is that the direct view displaycannot be seen by the user with the handset held against the head.During a two way conversation, in order to view the data, the user musthold the handset away from the ear, and place the direct view display atleast several inches in front of the eyes. This requires interrupting atwo way conversation to read data from a third party during theconversation, such as caller waiting ID data. Although this problem canbe avoided by speaker phones, this approach has limitations, in thatconfidentiality and sound fidelity are reduced, and the transmission ofenvironmental noises is increased.

The present invention is directed to a portable phone having a dataprojection system configured to generate and project a visual image ofdata onto a viewing surface which is in close proximity to the user, andeasily viewable by the user. This permits the visual image to beergonomically viewed by the user even with the handset held against thehead. Two way phone conversations can thus be carried out withoutinterruption, and without the limitations of speaker phones.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the present invention a portable phone, and a methodfor displaying data in a portable phone, are provided.

The portable phone includes a handset configured for holding in a user'shand, and placement against the head during a two way conversation. Thehandset includes a speaker, a microphone, a keypad, and a direct viewvisual display on a front surface thereof. In addition, the handsetincludes a battery, and a pair of charging contacts for the battery on abottom end surface thereof. Further, the handset includes conventionalphone circuitry configured to generate and display a first visual imageof data on the direct view visual display.

The handset also includes an image projection system configured to forma second visual image on a viewing surface, such as a body part of theuser, which is easily viewable during the phone conversation with thehandset held against the head. In addition, the image projection systemcan be operated by manipulation of the handset, and by selection andmanipulation of the viewing surface, such that the second visual imagecan be focused, enlarged, compressed, moved or moved to another viewingsurface.

The image projection system includes an electro optic system configuredto generate a pattern corresponding to the second visual image. Theimage projection system also includes an optics system configured toprocess the pattern into a mirror image and to project the mirror imageonto the viewing surface, which is then reflected to the user to formthe second visual image. The image projection system is an integralfixed element of the handset, which eliminates the need for additionalmechanical elements, and allows the second visual image to be easilylocated using subtle and intuitive user manipulation of the hands orother body parts. In this regard, the image projection system isoptically configured to project along a vector that is controlled bymanipulation of the handset about the user's head, such that the secondvisual image can be projected into the user's field of view with thespeaker in proximity to the ear, and the microphone in proximity to themouth. Stated differently, the handset, and the viewing surface as well,can be manipulated to provide a focused and readable second visual imagein close proximity to the user. However, the handset can also bemanipulated to provide privacy, or an unreadable second visual image ifrequired, or to make the second visual image viewable by persons otherthan the user.

In a first embodiment, the electro optic system includes a light sourcein light communication with a first set of optics and a light valve,such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), configured to generate thepattern. In a second embodiment the electro optic system includes anemissive display, such as an addressable patterned LED display, anelectroluminescent display, a cathode ray tube, or a field emissiondisplay, configured to generate the pattern. The optics system includesa second set of optics, which can include a single optical element(e.g., positive convex lens, positive Fresnel lens), or multiple opticalelements configured to process the pattern from the electro optic systeminto the mirror image of the second image and to project the mirrorimage onto the viewing surface.

The image projection system can also be configured to orient the secondvisual image such that it can be read by the user from left to right,regardless of whether the handset is held against the left ear or theright ear. As such, the image projection system can include a sensingdevice configured to sense an orientation of the handset, and to orientthe second visual image as a function of the orientation of the handset.For example, with the handset held in the user's left hand against theleft ear (i.e., left hand orientation), the second visual image can beoriented for left to right reading on the user's right hand, wrist orforearm. Similarly, with the handset held in the user's right handagainst the right ear (i.e., right hand orientation), the second visualimage can be oriented for left to right reading on the user's left hand,wrist or forearm.

The image projection system can also include a pulsing circuitconfigured to pulse the second visual image from a bright image to a lowimage, or to a no image. The pulsing circuit reduces power consumptionand heat generation by the image projection system. However, because ofthe way the human eye perceives and processes light, the high to lowpulsing sensation results in the user perceiving a higher brightness,than the actual brightness averaged over the pulses.

The method for displaying data includes the steps of: providing thehandset having the image projection system, holding the handset againstthe head of the user, conducting a two way conversation using thehandset with the handset held against the head, transmitting data to theimage projection system during the two way conversation, forming apattern representative of the data using the image projection system,processing the pattern into a mirror image of the second visual imageusing the image projection system, and then projecting the mirror imagefrom the handset onto the viewing surface using the image projectionsystem.

The method can also include the step of moving the handset about thehead during the conversation to locate the second visual image on theviewing surface, or another selected viewing surface. In addition, themethod can also include the steps of: providing the handset with asensing system, sensing an orientation of the handset using the sensingsystem, and then projecting the second visual image onto the viewingsurface with an orientation dependent on the sensed orientation of thehandset. As an alternative to the sensing system, a user may manuallyselect a left hand or a right hand orientation for the second visualimage.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A is a front elevation view of a portable phone constructed inaccordance with the invention with an image projection system;

FIG. 1B is a back elevation view of the portable phone;

FIG. 1C is a bottom end view of the portable phone;

FIG. 2A is an enlarged back elevation view of the portable phone takenalong line 2A of FIG. 1B illustrating an inner compartment thereof witha cover removed and the image projection system in the compartment;

FIG. 2B is an enlarged perspective view illustrating components of theimage projection system;

FIG. 2C is an enlarged back elevation view equivalent to FIG. 2Aillustrating an alternate embodiment image projection system;

FIG. 3A is a schematic diagram of the image projection system shownprojecting a visual image onto a viewing surface, which for illustrativepurposes comprises a hand which has been rotated by 90° from a normalviewing position;

FIG. 3B is a view taken along line 3B-3B of FIG. 3A and rotated 90°illustrating the visual image on the viewing surface;

FIG. 3C is a view equivalent to FIG. 3B of an alternate embodimentvisual image have curved alpha numeric characters;

FIG. 3D is a bottom end view equivalent to FIG. 1C illustrating firstand second orientations of a mirror image of the visual image afterexiting the portable phone;

FIG. 3E is an electrical schematic of an orientation sensing system ofthe image projection system;

FIG. 3F is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the imageprojection system;

FIG. 4A is a plan view of the user engaged in a phone conversation withthe portable phone held against the head with the left hand and thevisual image projected onto the right hand, or alternately the rightforearm;

FIG. 4B is a side elevation of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 4C is an enlarged view taken along line 4C-4C of FIG. 4Aillustrating the visual image on the right hand, or alternately theright forearm, of the user;

FIG. 5A is a plan view of the user engaged in a phone conversation withthe portable phone held against the head with the right hand and thevisual image projected onto the left hand, or alternately the leftforearm;

FIG. 5B is a side elevation of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5C is an enlarged view taken along line 5C-5C of FIG. 5Aillustrating the visual image on the left hand, or alternately the leftforearm, of the user;

FIG. 6A is front view of a light valve component of the image projectionsystem;

FIG. 6B is a side elevation view of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 6C is an enlarged view of the light valve component illustrating acharacter block;

FIG. 7A is an electrical block diagram of a control circuit for theimage projection system and it's interface with conventional phonecircuitry;

FIG. 7B is an electrical block diagram of an alternate embodimentcontrol circuit for the image projection system;

FIG. 8 is a plan view of an interface board containing the controlcircuit for the image projection system;

FIG. 9 is a schematic plan view of a programmable microcontroller of thecontrol circuit;

FIGS. 9A-9D are enlarged portions of the microcontroller taken alonglines 9A, 9B, 9C and 9D respectively of FIG. 9;

FIG. 10 is an electrical schematic of a microcontroller configurationEPROM of the control circuit;

FIG. 11 is an electrical schematic of a microcontroller cable of thecontrol circuit;

FIG. 12 is an electrical schematic of an oscillator (OSC) of the controlcircuit;

FIG. 13 is an electrical schematic of a potentiometer of the controlcircuit;

FIG. 14 is an electrical schematic of decoupling capacitors of thecontrol circuit;

FIG. 15 is an electrical schematic of decoupling capacitors of thecontrol circuit;

FIG. 16 is an electrical schematic of a 2.5V linear regulator for themicrocontroller of the control circuit; and

FIG. 17 is an electrical schematic of a pulsing circuit for the imageprojection system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Referring to FIGS. 1A-1C, FIGS. 2A-2C and FIGS. 3A-3F, a portable phone10 constructed in accordance with the invention is illustrated. In thedescription to follow, drawing figures for reference numerals aresometimes indicated in parenthesis following the reference numerals.However, each reference numeral appears several times throughout thedrawings, and are illustrated in more than just the parenthesizedfigures.

The portable phone 10 (FIG. 1A) can be in the form of a cordless phoneor a cellular phone. In the illustrative embodiment, the portable phone10 comprises a Uniden, model EXI-976 900 mhz cordless phone manufacturedby Uniden Corporation of Tokyo, Japan, which has been modified toinclude an image projection system 44 (FIG. 1B). However, the presentinvention is not limited to a Uniden cordless phone, as the conceptsherein can be adapted to the construction of any type of cordless orcellular phone. Also in the illustrative embodiment, the portable phone10 has a unitary construction. However, the concepts of the inventionare applicable to portable phones having a hinged or articulatedconstruction.

The portable phone 10 (FIG. 1A) includes a handset 12 (FIG. 1A) formedof a rigid material such as molded plastic. The handset 12 comprises ahollow support structure adapted to contain various components of theportable phone 10 (FIG. 1A), and has a size and shape suitable forholding by a user 14 (FIG. 4A). In addition, the handset 12 includes afront surface 16 (FIG. 1A), a back surface 18 (FIG. 1B), a bottom endsurface 20 (FIG. 1C) and a longitudinal axis 54 (FIG. 4B). The handset12 also includes an internal compartment 22 (FIG. 1B) having a removablecover 24 (FIG. 1B). The internal compartment 22 is proximate to thebottom end surface 20 (FIG. 1C) of the handset 12, and the cover 24(FIG. 1B) forms a portion of the back surface 18 (FIG. 1B) of thehandset 12. The handset 12 (FIG. 1C) can comprise a unitary assemblysubstantially as shown, or alternately can include one or moreseparable, hinged or articulated pieces.

The portable phone 10 also includes a speaker 26 (FIG. 1A), and amicrophone 28 (FIG. 1A) having access openings on the front surface 16(FIG. 1A) of the handset 12. Further, the portable phone 10 includes anantenna 30 (FIG. 1A) configured to send and receive signals. Inaddition, the portable phone 10 includes a key pad 32 (FIG. 1A) on thefront surface 16 (FIG. 1A) of the handset 12 (FIG. 1A) configured formanipulation by the user 14 (FIG. 4A) for inputting data and performingvarious functions of the portable phone 10.

The portable phone 10 also includes phone circuitry 38 (FIG. 1B) in thehandset 12 configured to generate data, such as caller waiting ID data,and a direct view display 34 (FIG. 1A) on a front surface 16 of thehandset 12 configured to display a first visual image 35 (FIG. 1A) ofthe data. The phone circuitry 38 can comprise conventional cordless orcellular phone circuitry constructed and operated using protocols thatare known in the art. By way of example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,418,209,6,125,277 and 5,987,330 which are incorporated herein by referencedisclose representative phone circuitry.

The portable phone 10 also includes a battery 42 (FIG. 1B) in signalcommunication with the phone circuitry 38 (FIG. 1B) configured toprovide power for various components of the portable phone 10. A pair ofexternal contacts 36 (FIG. 1C) on the bottom end surface 20 (FIG. 1C) ofthe handset 12 are configured for mating electrical engagement with ahandset receptacle (not shown) for charging the battery 42 (FIG. 1B).The battery 42 (FIG. 1B) can comprise a conventional rechargeable powersource, such as a NiCad battery, a nickel metal hydride battery, alithium-ion battery, or a fuel cell, configured to provide a selectedamount of power for a selected time period. In the illustrativeembodiment, the battery 42 (FIG. 1B) is configured to provide from 3.4to 4.0 volts, and 600-900 mAh.

The portable phone 10 also includes the image projection system 44 (FIG.1B) in the internal compartment 22 (FIG. 1B), and an on/off button 40(FIG. 1A) configured to turn the image projection system 44 (FIG. 1B) onand off. The image projection system 44 (FIG. 1B) is configured togenerate and project a second visual image 46 (FIG. 3B) representativeof data, such as caller waiting ID data, onto a viewing surface 48 (FIG.3B). In the illustrative embodiment, the image projection system 44(FIG. 1B) is configured to project the second visual image 46 (FIG. 3B)along an optical axis 52 (FIG. 3A) projecting from the bottom endsurface 20 (FIG. 2B) of the handset 12. Although other arrangements canbe used, the illustrative arrangement facilitates moving and focusing ofthe second visual image 46 (FIG. 3B) when the portable phone 10 is heldagainst a head 80 (FIG. 4A) of the user 14 (FIG. 4A). In use, theportable phone 10 can be rotated about an ear 92 (FIG. 4A) or 94 (FIG.5A) of the user 14 (FIG. 4A), such that the second visual image 46 (FIG.4C) can be conveniently located and focused in front of one or both eyes102, 104 (FIG. 4A) of the user 14 (FIG. 4A).

As shown in FIG. 3D, in the illustrative embodiment, the imageprojection system 44 (FIG. 1B) is configured to project a mirror image46′ of the second visual image 46 with an orientation leaving thehandset 10 that is generally perpendicular, or orthogonal, to the frontsurface 16 and the back surface 18 of the handset 12. In this case, theimage projection system 44 (FIG. 1B) also includes an orientationsensing device 106 (FIG. 3E) configured to sense the orientation of thehandset 10 (i.e., left hand or right hand), and to orient the mirrorimage 46′ of the second visual image 46 with either orientation A (FIG.3D) or orientation B (FIG. 3D), such that the second visual image 46reads in both cases from left to right on the viewing surface 48 (FIG.3B).

As shown in FIG. 1B, the image projection system 44 (FIG. 1B) includes abase 56 (FIG. 1B) configured to mount various components of the systemwithin the internal compartment 22 (FIG. 1B) of the handset 12. The base56 (FIG. 1B) can comprise an electrically insulating material, such asplastic, having a required size and shape. In addition, a plurality offasteners 62 (FIG. 1B), such as threaded screws, plastic weld points,snaps or pins, can be used to attach the base 56 (FIG. 1B) to thehandset 12.

As also shown in FIG. 1B, the image projection system includes anelectro optic system 45 configured to generate a pattern 46″ (FIG. 3F)representative of the second visual image 46 (FIG. 3B) responsive tosignals from the phone circuitry 38 (FIG. 1B). The electro optic system45 (FIG. 1B) includes a light source 58 (FIG. 1B), which may be apolychromatic or monochromatic source of light having a wavelength offrom 400 to 800 nanometer.

In the illustrative embodiment, the light source 58 (FIG. 1B) comprisesa light emitting diode (LED) protruding from a sealed enclosure 78 (FIG.2B) mounted to the base 56 (FIG. 2B). As shown in FIG. 3F, the lightsource 58 also includes a substrate 136, an LED chip 138 surrounded by asoft gel 140, a lens 142 which directs light forward for furtherprocessing and usage in the image projection system 44, and a lensmounting block 144 for mounting the lens 142. The substrate 136 isconfigured to provide an assembly platform for the light source 58 andelectrical feeds to the LED chip 138. In addition, the substrate 136provides a heat sink for the LED chip 138 directly from the LED chip138, and from the LED chip 138 through the gel 140 to the substrate 136as well.

The gel 140 conducts heat emitted by the LED chip 138 to the mountingblock 144 and to the substrate 136, where it is dissipated. In addition,the gel 140 provides a cushion against CTE mismatch cracking of the LEDchip 138, and an optical index matching medium for efficiently couplingthe light output of the LED chip 138 to the optical train. In use, thegel 140, the mounting block 144 and the substrate 136 improve theperformance of the light source 58. This allows the image projectionsystem 44 to form the second visual image 46 (FIG. 3B) in a dim or abright setting, and with the viewing surface 48 (FIG. 3B) havingirregular contours and low reflectivity. With regards to the improvedperformance, the substrate 136 has a direct physical/thermal contactwith the back of the LED chip 138, and includes a metal layer (notshown) on a back surface thereof, which functions as a heat sink for theLED chip 138.

The mounting block 144 is made of solid copper treated with a reflectivecoating. As with the substrate 136, the mounting block 144 alsofunctions as a heat sink for the LED chip 138. In addition tofunctioning as a heat sink and a structure for mounting the lens 142,the mounting block 144 also provides a cavity for the gel 140, and areflection mechanism for transmitting light which is on a trajectoryaway from the lens 142 back to the gel 140. Also in the illustrativeembodiment, a flexible heat conductive matting (not shown) is placedagainst the light source 58 to further enhance cooling. Suitable heatconductive matting are products “WSF 16” and “WSF 32” manufactured byFisher Electronik GmBH, having sales representation in the United Statesthrough ICS International Circuits Sales, Inc. of Phoenix, Ariz.

One suitable light source 58 comprises a high brightness, gel enhancedLED light source. In the illustrative embodiment, the light source 58includes multiple heat sinks (substrate 136 and mounting block 144) withsubstrate 136 in intimate contact with LED chip 138, and mounting block144 in thermal communication with LED chip 138 through translucent gel140. In addition, the LED chip 138 is in intimate contact with thetranslucent gel 140 placed between the LED chip 138 and the first set ofoptics 60. By way of example, the light source 58 must produce at leastabout 4 Lumens of light, with about 6 or more Lumens being preferred,and with about 10 or more Lumens with an FSTN LCD light valve. Inaddition, the light source 58 should have a density of light of at least18 Lumens per square mm of surface area of the LED chip 138.

One suitable light source 58 comprises an Xlamp, part number XL7090-L100-RED, Bin #R2H, manufactured by Cree, Inc., Durham, S.C.However, it is to be understood that this manufacturer and partdesignation, as well as others to follow, are merely exemplary, andother equivalent components can be substituted. With this light source58, the LED chip 138 comprises an InGaAlP based LED die configured toproduce red light and having dimensions of 1 mm×1 mm×0.16 mm.

In addition to the above requirements, the light source 58 preferablyhas a light production efficiency of greater than about 24 Lumens perwatt. The above noted XL 7090-L100-RED, Bin #R2H light source 58produces a light output having a Lambertion Spatial Pattern and anapproximately 100 degree angle cone of light emission, and producesapproximately 20.8+/−2.7 Lumens of light while operating in a 25° C.environment, and drawing approximately 330 milliamps of electricalcurrent. In the illustrative embodiment, the light source 58 has beendriven with as high as about 500 milli-Amps of electrical current.

There are several options for driving the light source 58 (FIG. 1B). Afirst option is to use a resistor in series with the light source 58(FIG. 1B) to limit current to an acceptable level. In this case thelight source 58 (FIG. 1B) will have a 100% duty cycle during the timethe light source 58 (FIG. 1B) is on.

A second option is to pulse the light source 58 (FIG. 1B) with a limitedduty cycle. In a pulsed mode, the human eye perceives the brightnessbeing produced, as more than the average value being produced. This canresult in a perceived improvement in image quality, at a reduced powerconsumption and reduced heat generation, relative to operating at aconstant current. In this case, the light source 58 (FIG. 1B) can bepulsed at a higher current for short periods of time in order to makethe second visual image 46 (FIG. 3B) appear brighter to the user 14(FIG. 4A). In addition, the second visual image 46 (FIG. 3B) appears tobe brighter than with an arrangement where the light source 58 isoperated at a current which is lower than the peak current of a pulse,but higher than the low point of a pulse for a continuous period. Aswill be further explained, FIG. 17 illustrates an exemplary pulsingcircuit 108 for implementing the second option.

A third option is to use a drive chip for the light source 58 (FIG. 1B).in addition, the mechanism for driving the light source 58 (FIG. 1B) cancomprise a user controlled adjustment for varying the brightness of thesecond visual image 46, and the power consumption of the light source58. Further, the mechanism for driving the light source 58, can containa preset time from the manufacturer, or an adjustable time set by theuser 14, which determines how long the light source 58 remains on when acall waiting signal is activated. For example, an exemplary time periodcan be about 15 seconds.

As shown in FIG. 3A, the light source 58 (FIG. 3A) is in signalcommunication with a control circuit 76 (FIG. 3A) contained on aninterface board 74 (FIG. 3A). In addition, the control circuit 76 (FIG.3A) is in signal communication with the phone circuitry 38 (FIG. 3A). Aswill be further explained, the control circuit 76 (FIG. 3A) isconfigured to control elements of the image projection system 44responsive to signals from the phone circuitry 38 (FIG. 3A).

The electro optic system 45 (FIG. 1B) also includes a first set ofoptics 60 (FIG. 1B) configured to collect and process light from thelight source 58 (FIG. 1B) in order to improve the brightness, contrastor image quality of the second visual image 46 (FIG. 3B). In addition,the first set of optics 60 (FIG. 1B) can be configured to process lightfrom the light source 58 (FIG. 1B) to improve the degree of collimationof the light, and can be configured to manipulate the light in size,shape or form factor. The first set of optics 60 (FIG. 1B) can comprisea single optic element or multiple optic elements, and can includeelements integrated into the light source 58 (FIG. 1B). The opticelements of the first set of optics 60 can comprise refractive opticelements, reflective optic elements, diffractive optic elements, lightpiping elements, or combinations thereof. An exemplary spacing betweenthe light source 58 (FIG. 1B) and the first set of optics 60 (FIG. 1B)can be about 8 mm. The light source 58 (FIG. 1B) can also be processedthrough light piping, light channeling, refractive, reflective, ordiffractive elements. In some cases, these elements can provide superiorresults relative to a light source at a distance having a physicallyblocking frame.

In the illustrative embodiment, the first set of optics 60 (FIG. 1B)comprises a refractive optic element in the form of a Fresnel lenscontained on a frame 61 (FIG. 2B) mounted to the base 56. One suitableFresnel lens is available from Edmund Optics Inc. of Barrington, N.J.,as part number Y43-022, having a 0.5 inch lens diameter, a 0.4 inchfocal length, a 0.06 inch overall lens thickness, and a Fresnel patternformed by 250 grooves per inch. The lens is a molded acrylic lens havingan index of refraction of 1.49. This lens is placed with its smooth faceside facing the light source 58, and the contoured, infinite conjugateside facing the light valve 64.

The electro optic system 45 (FIG. 1B) also includes a light valve 64(FIG. 1B), such as an LCD (liquid crystal display) or other display withtransparent or translucent pixels. The light valve 64 (FIG. 1B) isconfigured to receive light from the light source 58 (FIG. 1B) and thefirst set of optics 60 (FIG. 1B), and to generate a pattern 46″ (FIG.3F) enabling the formation of the second visual image 46 (FIG. 3B)responsive to electronic signals. In the illustrative embodiment thepattern 46″ varies as a function of the electronic signals. However, thelight valve 64 (FIG. 1B) can also be configured to generate a fixedpattern or a pattern having both variable and fixed elements. As shownin FIG. 3A, the light valve 64 (FIG. 3A) is in signal communication withthe control circuit 76 (FIG. 3A) contained on the interface board 74(FIG. 3A). In addition, a representative spacing between the light valve64 (FIG. 1B) and the first set of optics 60 (FIG. 1B) can be about 5.5mm. When the light exiting the first set of optics 60 has a high degreeof collimation, the spacing distance between the light valve 64 and thefirst set of optics 60 can vary significantly without producing asignificant effect on the second visual image 46. In addition, assemblymisalignments can be more easily overcome with highly collimated light.

In the illustrative embodiment, the light valve 64 (FIG. 1B) comprises achip on glass (COG) negative image, film compensated supertwistednematic (FSTN) liquid crystal display (LCD) configured for generation ofthe second visual image 46 (FIG. 3B) as alpha numeric characters with adesired size, spacing and shape. Alternately rather than alpha numericcharacters, the light valve 64 (FIG. 1B) can be configured to generatethe second visual image 46 (FIG. 3B) as pictures, characters, drawings,symbols, photographs, or video information. Further, the second visualimage 46 can be representative of any type of data including but notlimited to music, stocks, sports, weather, traffic, news and head linedata. In addition, the data can be presented in viewable segments thatare scrolled into position using a button on the keypad 32 (FIG. 1A), orautomatic streaming in the manner of a ticker tape machine.

Referring to FIGS. 6A-6C, the light valve 64 is shown separately. In theillustrative embodiment, the light valve 64 comprises a chip on glassliquid crystal display (LCD). The light valve 64 includes a transparentsubstrate 120 (FIG. 6A) having terminal leads 122 (FIG. 6A) inelectrical communication with traces (not shown) on the substrate 120(FIG. 6A). The terminal leads 122 (FIG. 6A) electrically connect thelight valve 64 to the control circuit 76 (FIG. 8) for the imageprojection system 44 (FIG. 1B). The light valve 64 also includes adriver chip 124 (FIG. 6A) in electrical communication with the terminalleads 122 (FIG. 6A). One suitable driver chip 124 (FIG. 6A) comprises aNovatek NT7605 chip configured to include suitable drive circuitry.Alternately in place of the driver chip 124 (FIG. 6A), the drivecircuitry could include circuits fabricated from amorphous silicon orpolysilicon thin film transistors, or single crystal transistorsintegrated into the substrate 120 (FIG. 6A).

The light valve 64 also includes an active area 126 (FIG. 6A) comprisingan array of character blocks 128 (FIG. 6A). The active area 126 can havea selected width and length (e.g., 2.07 millimeter×6.87 millimeter). Inaddition, polarizers 132, 134 (FIG. 6B) are located on opposing sides ofthe active area 126.

In the illustrative embodiment, the active area 126 (FIG. 6A) comprisestwo rows of twelve character blocks 128 (FIG. 6A), with each block madeup of an array of 5×7 rectangular pixel dots 130 (FIG. 6C). With thisarrangement, the active area 126 has about 840 pixels. In order torepresent a phone number twelve digits are required, including a spaceor dash between area code, prefix and number, and the actual tennumbers. In the illustrative embodiment, the character blocks 128comprise pixel dots, or pixel segments, that are used to generate eithernumbers or letters. The number or letter capability is required becausethe top row of the second visual image 46 (FIG. 3B) with a left handorientation (FIGS. 5A-5C) of the phone 10 will become the bottom rowwith a right hand orientation (FIG. 4A-4C). Even if a lesser estheticoption of a sixteen segment character block were used, the two row,twelve character display would consist of at least 384 pixels. Smalllight valves, such as the one used in the illustrative embodiment, withthis number of addressable pixels require circuits integrated into thelight valve substrate via direct patterning or chip on glass (COG)technology.

One suitable light valve 64 is an LCD, part number C10695 Rev 1, whichwas custom manufactured by Pacific Display Devices of Diamond Bar,Calif. for the phone 10. The custom LCD comprises a negative image COGFSTN LCD with a 2.07 millimeter×6.87 millimeter active area and anoverall substrate 120 (FIG. 6A) size of 13 mm×15 mm. The rectangularpixels within the active area of the C10695 LCD are 0.09 mm wide and0.13 mm high, having a spacing between pixels within a character blockof 0.01 mm. The character blocks within the active area of the C10695LCD have a vertical spacing between character blocks of 0.15 mm, and ahorizontal spacing between character blocks within a row of 0.09 mm.

As shown in FIG. 2C, an alternate embodiment emissive electro opticsystem 44A includes an addressable emissive display 64A, such as anaddressable patterned LED display, an organic light emitting diode(OLED), an electroluminescent display, a cathode ray tube (CRT) display,vacuum fluorescent display (VFD), a field emission display (FED) orother display having light producing pixels. In this case, the lightsource 58 (FIG. 2B) and the first set of optics 60 (FIG. 2B) can beeliminated.

As another alternative, the addressable emissive display 64A can bereplaced by a reflective display such as a reflective liquid crystaldisplay, a digital mirror display (DMD), a reflective LCOS display, areflective electrochromic display or other display with reflectivepixels, such that the amount or direction of the pixels reflection isvariable. In an embodiment employing a reflective display, the lightsource 58 (FIG. 2A) and the first set of optics 60 (FIG. 2A) would bepositioned such that light would be imparted onto the same side of thereflective display as the exiting light.

The image projection system 44 (FIG. 2A) also includes an optics systemin the form of a second set of optics 66 (FIG. 2A) configured to receivethe pattern 46″ (FIG. 3F) which has been formed by the light valve 64(FIG. 2A), to process the pattern 46″ (FIG. 3F) into the mirror image46′ (FIG. 3D) of the second visual image 46 (FIG. 3B), and to projectthe mirror image 46′ (FIG. 3D) toward the viewing surface 48 (FIG. 3B).The mirror image 46′ is then reflected from the viewing surface 48 tothe user 14 (FIG. 4B) as the second visual image 46 (FIG. 3B).

In the illustrative embodiment, the second set of optics 66 (FIG. 2B) iscontained in a stepped tube 68 (FIG. 2B) having a mounting flange 70(FIG. 2B) that attaches to the light valve 64 (FIG. 2B), and a mountingflange 72 (FIG. 2B) that attaches to the base 56 (FIG. 2B). In addition,the bottom end surface 20 (FIG. 2B) of the handset 12 (FIG. 2B) includesan opening 114 (FIG. 2B) for the second optics system 66 (FIG. 2B).Further, as shown in FIG. 2B, the second set of optics 66 can berecessed in the handset 12, such that the opening 114 in the bottom endsurface 20 has a rim 69 which protects the second set of optics 66. Thesecond set of optics 66 is thus less likely to be scratched or damagedby movement of the handset 12 during use and storage.

The second set of optics 66 (FIG. 2A) can include a single opticalelement, such as a positive convex lens, or multiple optical elementsconfigured to project the mirror image 46′ (FIG. 3D) toward the viewingsurface 48 (FIG. 3B). The optical elements for the second set of optics66 can comprise refractive optical elements, reflective opticalelements, diffractive optical elements, light piping elements orcombinations thereof. In addition, the second set of optics 66 (FIG. 2A)can include a focusing mechanism (not shown) configured for manuallyfocusing the second visual image 46 (FIG. 3B) such that it is inreadable focus for at least one of the user's eyes 102, 104 (FIG. 4B),when the second set of optics 66 (FIG. 3A) is at a distance D (FIG. 3A)from the viewing surface 48 (FIG. 3A). This allows the user 14 to set anoffset which accommodates their particular vision and tastes.Furthermore, the second set of optics 66 can include a lens with anelectrically tunable focus length such as a PAM-1000 tunable lensproduced by Varioptic of Lyon, France.

In the illustrative embodiment, the second set of optics 66 (FIG. 3A)comprises a positive optical lens. One suitable lens for constructingthe second set of optics 66 is an achromatic lens available from EdmundIndustrial Optics, of Barrington, N.J., as part number Y45-092, having adiameter of 9 mm, an effective focal length of 27 mm and a back focallength of 24.22 mm. This lens is configured and positioned in the imageprojection system 44 to project along an optical axis 52 (FIG. 3A) at adistance D (FIG. 3A) to the viewing surface of about 8-16 inches.

A representative height H1 (FIG. 3B) of the individual characters on thesecond visual image 46 (FIG. 3B) can be 3.5 mm to 21.5 mm, with 9 mmbeing typical. A representative width W (FIG. 3B) of the second visualimage 46 (FIG. 3B) can be from 25 mm to 152 mm depending on the distanceD, the size of the active area 126 (FIG. 6A), and the configuration ofthe second set of optics 66 (FIG. 3A), with 64 mm being typical. Arepresentative height H2 of the second visual image 46 (FIG. 3B) can befrom 7.6 mm to 46.2 mm, with 19.3 mm being typical. A representativewidth to height ratio can be greater than 1.5:1, with the illustrativeembodiment being 3.3:1.

FIG. 3C illustrates an alternate embodiment second visual image 46Awhich is formed along curved lines. This arrangement compresses thesecond visual image 46A so that a width W2 of the second visual image46A is less than the width W of the second visual image 46 (FIG. 3B).

In the illustrative embodiment, the second visual image 46 (FIG. 3B)reads from left to right. In addition, the portable phone 10 can includethe orientation sensing device 106 (FIG. 3E) configured to sense theorientation of the portable phone 10 as “left hand” or “right hand”relative to the user 14 (FIG. 4A), and to orient the second visual image46 with a left to right reading format, regardless of whether the lefthand orientation or the right hand orientation of the portable phone 10is used. For example, the portable phone 10 can be held in the left hand82 (left hand orientation) as shown in FIGS. 4A-4C, or in the right hand84 (left hand orientation) as shown in FIGS. 5A-5C. In either case, theorientation sensing device 106 (FIG. 3E) orients the second visual image46 for left to right viewing by the user 14. Stated differently, theorientation sensing device 106 (FIG. 3E) is configured to rotate thesecond visual image 46 in the left hand orientation (FIGS. 4A-4C) 180°relative to the second visual image 46 in the right hand orientation(FIG. 5A-5C).

As shown in FIG. 1B, the orientation sensing device 106 is contained ona circuit board 112 mounted within the handset 12 (FIG. 1B). Inaddition, the orientation sensing device 106 is in electricalcommunication with a microcontroller U2 (FIG. 8) of the control circuit76 (FIG. 8) for the image projection system 44. As shown in FIG. 3E, theorientation sensing device 106 includes output pins P1 and P2. Theoutput from output pins P1 and P2 changes as a function of theorientation of the sensing device 106. In FIG. 3E the orientationsensing device 106 is shown in five different positions relative to alongitudinal axis 54 of the handset 12, and the corresponding outputfrom output pins P1 and P2 is illustrated.

As illustrated in FIG. 3E, the output of pins PT1/PT2 will be high orlow depending on the orientation of the orientation sensing device 106.Based on input from the pins PT1/PT2, the microcontroller U2 (FIG. 8) ofthe control circuit 76 (FIG. 8) controls the light valve 64 (FIG. 1B) toorient the mirror image 46′ of the second visual image 46 (FIG. 3D) inposition A (FIG. 3D) or position B (FIG. 3D). One suitable orientationsensing device 106 is available from Sharp Electronics of the Americasof Camas, Wash., and is designated a photointerrupter for detecting tiltdirection, part number GP1S36. Alternately, a manual switch, a voicecommand switch, a soft key, or a keyed in sequence can be used to changethe orientation of the second visual image 46 (FIG. 3B).

Referring to FIG. 3F, the operation of the image projection system 44 isillustrated. The image projection system 44 includes the electro opticsystem 45 which comprises the light source 58, the first set of optics60 and the light valve 64 configured to generate the pattern 46″responsive to control signals from the control circuit 76 (FIG. 8). Inaddition, the image projection system 44 includes the second set ofoptics 66 configured to process the pattern 46″ into the mirror image46′ of the second visual image 46 and to project the mirror image 46′(FIG. 3D) onto the viewing surface 48.

In FIG. 3F, there are break lines 146 between the second set of optics66 and the second visual image 46 on the viewing surface 48. The breaklines 146 are required to show relative proportions without having toshow the actual length of distance D, which is the distance between thesecond set of optics 66 and the viewing surface 48. In addition, thesecond visual image 46 is depicted as it would appear in an edge view,and is illustrated as an arrow because it's size can change depending onthe distance D. The pattern 46″ generated by the light valve 64 is alsodepicted as an arrow. The arrows provide an orientation comparison ofthe pattern 46″ generated by the light valve 64 relative to the secondvisual image 46. In addition, the arrows show that the size of thesecond visual image 46 is larger than the pattern 46″ produced by thelight valve 64. In accordance with the invention, the handset 12 and theviewing surface 48 can be manipulated by the user 14 (FIG. 4A) to varythe distance D to provide ergonomic and readable viewing of the secondvisual image 46.

As shown in FIG. 3F, the light source 58 generates an emission cone oflight rays 148 having a relatively large angle. In FIG. 3F, the lightrays 148 emitted by the light source are shown as solid lines with arrowheads at their point of entry with the light valve 64. The dashedoptical tracing lines 152 (FIG. 3F) and 154 (FIG. 3F), are shownconverging from the ends of pattern 46″ toward the second set of optics66 (FIG. 3F), where the lines cross, and are then shown as divergingfrom the second set of optics 66 (FIG. 3F) toward the viewing surface 48(FIG. 3F)

Some of the light rays 148 from the light source 58 disperse asindicated, the light rays 148, which are collected, collimated anddirected by the first set of optics 60 towards the active area 126 ofthe light valve 64, are used to produce the pattern 46″. The light rays148 which will become collimated, narrow angle light rays after passingthrough the first set of optics 60, will pass through the light valve 64more effectively than wide angle light from the light source 58,resulting in the second visual image 46 having improved brightness,contrast or image quality, particularly when the light valve 64comprises an LCD. Furthermore, collimating the light rays 148 andreducing the spread of light, wastes less light. This is because morelight will fall on the active area 126 of the light valve 64 (FIG. 3F),and less light will fall outside the active area 126. The more nearlythe cross section of the beam of collimated light rays 148 travelingfrom the first set of optics 66 to the light valve 64, matches the sizeand shape of the active area 126, the brighter the second visual image46 will be.

As previously explained, the mirror image 46′ (FIG. 3F) of the secondvisual image 46 may be reflected to the eyes 102, 104 (FIG. 4A) of theuser 14 from the viewing surface 48 which can be a body part (e.g.,hands 82, 84), or other convenient or ergonomically beneficial surface.This arrangement, although effective, has trade offs in opticalperformance, because of the relatively low reflectivity, and surfacecontours of body parts, which are not flat, smooth and planar. Becauseof the optical performance trade offs resulting from the viewing surface48 being less than ideal, the first set of optics 60 serves a criticalfunction in increasing the brightness of the second visual image 46. Thecontrol circuit 76 (FIG. 8) can also include circuit elements andexternal controls on the handset 12 configured to increase or decreasethe brightness of the light source 58 and the second visual image 46.The control circuit 76 (FIG. 8) can also include circuit elements andexternal sensors configured to sense ambient brightness, and thenincrease or decrease the brightness of the light source 58 and thesecond visual image 46 as a function of the ambient brightness.

In the case where the active area 126 (FIG. 3F) of the light valve 64(FIG. 3F) has a width greater than its height, the first set of optics60 (FIG. 3F) may be configured to process the light rays 148 (FIG. 3F)from the light source 58 (FIG. 3F) asymmetrically, expanding the beam inone dimension more than another, or alternatively shrinking it in onedimension more than another. Any number of approaches using refractive,diffractive, reflective and light piping optical elements may beemployed. One such approach would be to employ refractive optic elementsor refractive optic surfaces in the first set of optics 60, which havedifferent focal lengths along the width axis and height axis of thelight valve 64. Another such approach would be to employ around-to-rectangle tapered fiber optic bundle in the first set of optics60. Exemplary round-to-rectangle tapered fiber optic bundles areavailable through Schott North America Inc., of Southbridge, Mass., andare referred to as fused fiber optic tapers. Further examples areavailable from Fiber Optics Technology Inc., of Pomfret, Conn.

The light valve 64 (FIG. 3F) using control signals from the controlcircuit 76 (FIG. 8) transforms the light rays 148 into the pattern 46″(FIG. 3F), which after being processed by the second set of optics 66(FIG. 3F) becomes the mirror image 46′ (FIG. 3D) of the second visualimage 46. The mirror image 46′ (FIG. 3D) is projected by the second setof optics 66 (FIG. 3F) onto the viewing surface 48, and is reflected offthe viewing surface 48 to become the second visual image 46. Aspreviously stated, the distance D between the viewing surface 48 and thesecond set of optics 66 can be selected to provide an ergonomicallyviewable second image 46 for the user 14.

Shortening the distance between the light valve 64 (FIG. 3F) and thelast element of the second set of optics 66 (FIG. 3F) can be used toprovide more available space inside the handset 12 for other componentsand systems of the portable phone 10. This can be particularlybeneficial in cellular phones, which are typically the smallest portablephones. The optical elements of the second set of optics 66 (FIG. 3F)can be configured to achieve a shorter distance between the light valve64 (FIG. 3F) and the final optic element of the second set of optics 66(FIG. 3F), relative to that of a single positive lens. In addition, thesecond set of optics 66 (FIG. 3F) can be configured to maintain a samesize for the second visual image 46 at substantially the same distanceD. Although such an approach may add cost and complexity to the secondset of optics 66, overall benefits in space savings may be achieved.

One such approach is to project a converging image away from the secondset of optics 66, as opposed to the diverging image shown in 3F. Theconverging image reaches a crossing point between the second set ofoptics 66 and the viewing surface 48 where the image inverts and beginsexpanding. Another approach for reducing the distance from the lightvalve 64 to the second set of optics 66 is to employ a single refractivepositive lens with a shorter focal length, and a light valve 64 with asmaller active area. When the pattern 46″ formed by the light valve 64is wider than its height, and a single positive lens is used for thesecond set of optics 66, a rectangular or elliptical shaped outerperimeter of the lens can be utilized, resulting in a reduction in size,relative to a lens having a fixed diameter, and without substantiallycompromising the quality of the second visual image 46.

Referring to FIGS. 4A-4C, the portable phone 10 is illustrated in use bythe user 14 during a phone conversation with a left hand orientation. InFIGS. 4A-4C, the orientation sensing device 106 (FIG. 4A) senses theleft hand orientation of the handset 12, and orients the mirror image46′ (FIG. 3D) of the second visual image 46 (FIG. 4C) projecting fromthe second set of optics 66 (FIG. 3D) with the orientation A (FIG. 3D).In this case, the mirror image 46′ (FIG. 3D) projects from the secondset of optics 66 (FIG. 3D) oriented approximately 90° to the surfaces16, 18 (FIG. 3D), and with the alpha numeric characters reading in adirection extending from the back surface 18 (FIG. 3D) towards the frontsurface 16 (FIG. 3D) of the handset 12 (FIG. 3D).

Also in FIGS. 4A-4C, the user 14 holds the handset 12 in the left hand82 with the speaker 26 held against or proximate to the left ear 92. Inaddition, the mirror image 46′ (FIG. 3D) is projected onto the viewingsurface 48 (FIG. 4C) which comprises the open palm 86 (FIG. 4C) of theright hand 84 (FIG. 4C). The mirror image 46′ (FIG. 3D) is projectedorthogonally relative to the front surface 16 (FIG. 3D) of the handset12, along a vector 156 (FIGS. 4A and 4B) which extends in a directionfrom the speaker 26 (FIG. 1A) towards the microphone 28 (FIG. 1A) of thehandset 12. Stated differently, the vector 156 has a direction travelingaway from the bottom of the handset 12. The direction of the vector 156is controlled by the user 14 moving the handset 12 about the head 80 andthe ear 94. At the same time, the user 14 can move the viewing surface48 such that the projection of the mirror image 46″ (FIG. 3D) intersectsthe viewing surface 48. The unique configuration of the image projectionsystem 44 (FIG. 1B) in the handset 12 allows great flexibility incontrolling the location, size and focus of the second visual image 46.This is because the image projection system 44 (FIG. 1B), being fixedlyattached to the handset 12, has a fixed orientation in the handset 12,which eliminates the need for additional mechanical devices to controlthe direction of the vector 156. The image projection system 44 is ineffect part of the handset 12, and is controlled by movement of thehandset 12.

The user 14 can control the location, the size and the focus of thesecond visual image 46 (FIG. 4C) by manipulating the handset 12 (FIG.4B), such as by rotating the handset 12 (FIG. 4B) about the left ear 92(FIG. 4B), and by slanting a longitudinal axis 54 (FIG. 4B) of thehandset 12 (FIG. 4B) relative to the head 80 (FIG. 4B). The handset 12(FIG. 4B) can also be moved by small amounts in the X, Y and Zdirections, and rotated slightly about the longitudinal axis 54 (FIG.4B) as well. In addition, the right hand 84 (FIG. 4C) of the user 14 canbe moved in X, Y and Z directions and rotated as well, such that thesecond visual image 46 (FIG. 4C) is located and focused at a position infront of the eyes 102, 104 (FIG. 4B), and at a distance D (FIG. 4A) fromthe second optics system 66 (FIG. 4A) that permits clear viewing of thesecond visual image 46 (FIG. 4A). The handset 12, and the configurationof the image projection system 44 in the handset 12, provide a mechanismfor pointing and projecting the mirror image 46″ (FIG. 3D) at theviewing surface 48.

By way of example, an optical axis 52 (FIG. 4B) of the image projectionsystem 44 (FIG. 3A) can be constructed with an angle X (FIG. 4B) of from0° to 45° relative to a longitudinal axis 54 (FIG. 4B) of the handset 12(FIG. 4B), with approximately 0° being preferred. In addition, the imageprojection system 44 (FIG. 3A) can be constructed, such that an angle Y(FIG. 4A) of the second visual image 46 can be from 5° to 75°, with 11°to 28°, being preferred.

Alternately, the mirror image 46′ (FIG. 3D) can be projected ontoanother body part, such as the wrist 88 (FIG. 4C) or the forearm 90(FIG. 4C). Rather than a body part, the mirror image 46′ (FIG. 3D) canbe projected upon another surface, such as clothing, or furniture, suchas the back of an airplane seat, or a hinged dining table attached tothe seat. In this regard, the viewing surface 48 (FIG. 3A) can compriseany surface in close proximity to the user's eyes 102, 104 (FIG. 4B) andthe handset 12 (FIG. 4B), while the portable phone 10 is in use during aphone conversation. In addition, the viewing surface 48 (FIG. 3A) ispreferably in a direct line of sight with the user's eyes 102, 104 (FIG.4B) while the speaker 26 (FIG. 1A) is proximate to the user's ear 92(FIG. 4B).

Further, the handset 12 (FIG. 4B) and the image protection system 44(FIG. 3A) can be used while the user 14 (FIG. 4B) is sitting, standing,laying down or moving. In addition to providing ergonomic viewing by theuser 14 (FIG. 4B) during a phone conversation, the viewing surface 48(FIG. 4C) can be located such that that background light and glare canbe reduced or substantially eliminated. Also, the handset 12 (FIG. 4B)is under hand control, and can be quickly moved and manipulated by theuser 14 (FIG. 4B) to make the second visual image 46 (FIG. 4C) focusedand readable. The handset 12 (FIG. 4B) becomes another appendage of theuser 14 due to the placement and function of the image projection system44 (FIG. 3A) within the handset 12.

Still further, the viewing surface 48 (FIG. 4C) can be located such thatthe user 14 (FIG. 4B) can easily view the second visual image 46 (FIG.4C), while other persons cannot see the second visual image 46 (FIG.4C). This provides some measure of privacy, particularly over systemssuch as voice boxes. In addition, privacy can be achieved because theuser 14 (FIG. 4B) can control the viewing surface 48 (FIG. 4C), and thefocus of the second visual image 46 (FIG. 4C) as well. Accordingly, ifthe user 14 (FIG. 4B) wishes another person to view the visual image 46(FIG. 46), the viewing surface 48 can be moved or another viewingsurface 48 can be selected, such that the data can be shared, butwithout interruption of a phone conversation.

Referring to FIGS. 5A-5C, the portable phone 10 is illustrated in use bythe user 14 during a phone conversation with a right hand orientation.With the right hand orientation, the user 14 holds the handset 12 (FIG.5B) in the right hand 84 (FIG. 5B) with the speaker 26 (FIG. 1A) heldagainst or proximate to the right ear 94 (FIG. 5B). In addition, theuser 14 moves the left hand 82 (FIG. 5B) to locate and focus the image46 (FIG. 5C) in the direction of vector 156, substantially as previouslydescribed. As with the left hand orientation (FIGS. 4A-4C), the secondvisual image 46 reads from left to right. This requires that theorientation sensing device 106 (FIG. 5A) rotate the mirror image 46′(FIG. 3D) by 180° from orientation A (FIG. 3D) to orientation B (FIG.3D). In addition, the mirror image 46′ of the second visual image 46(FIG. 3D) projects from the second optics system 66 (FIG. 3D) orientedapproximately 90° to the surfaces 16, 18 (FIG. 3D), and with a row ofalpha numeric characters reading in a direction extending from the frontsurface 16 (FIG. 3D) towards the back surface 18 (FIG. 3D) of thehandset 12 (FIG. 3D).

Referring to FIG. 7A, a block diagram illustrates the interface of thecontrol circuit 76 with the conventional phone circuitry 38. In theillustrative embodiment, the conventional phone circuitry 38 included adirect view LCD and a microcontroller configured to generate visual datafor the phone direct view display 34 (FIG. 1A).

The control circuit 76 is contained on the interface board 74 which ismounted within the portable phone 10. In addition, as will be furtherexplained, the control circuit 76 includes a programmablemicrocontroller U2 (FIG. 8). The control circuit 76 is in electricalcommunication with the conventional phone circuitry 38, and converts thesame signals used to generate the visual data for the direct viewdisplay 34 (FIG. 1A) to a format suitable for driving the light valve 64(FIG. 1B) of the image projection system 44 (FIG. 1B).

In the illustrative embodiment, the control circuit 76 is requiredbecause the signals from the conventional phone circuitry 38 cannotdirectly drive the light valve 64 (FIG. 1B) of the image projectionsystem 44 (FIG. 3A). In the illustrative embodiment, the conventionalphone circuitry 38 of the previously identified Uniden cordless phoneuses a four wire serial configuration, which was converted by thecontrol circuit 76 to a four bit parallel interface suitable for drivingthe light valve 64 (FIG. 1B). However, the control circuit 76 can beconstructed to convert signals from any conventional phone circuitryincluding 2, 3 or 4 wire serial configurations.

Referring to FIG. 7B, a block diagram illustrates an alternate interfacein which signals from the conventional phone circuitry 38 are used todirectly drive the light valve 64 (FIG. 1B) of the image projectionsystem 44 (FIG. 1B). In this case, the direct view display 34 (FIG. 1A)and the light valve 64 (FIG. 1B) use the same interface. As anotheralternative, if the direct view display 34 (FIG. 1A) uses a differentinterface than the light valve 64 (FIG. 1B), then the programmablemicrocontroller U2 can be programmed to convert the signals required todrive the light valve 64 (FIG. 1B).

Referring to FIG. 8, the interface board 74 and the control circuit 76are illustrated. The control circuit 76 performs several functionsduring operation of the image projection system 44. A first function ofthe control circuit 76 is to initialize the light valve 64 (FIG. 1B) andload a correct register setting at startup. In this regard, the driverchip 124 (FIG. 6A) of the light valve 64 (FIG. 6A) has different optionsfor displaying the second image 46 (FIG. 3B) and the control circuit 76is used to select and load these options at start up.

A second function of the control circuit 76 is to take serial data fromthe phone circuitry 38 (FIG. 1B) and convert this data to a serialformat required by the light valve 64 (FIG. 1B).

A third function of the control circuit 76 is to control the activationof the light source 58 (FIG. 1B). If desired, the light source 58 (FIG.1B) can be activated after a set time period (e.g., several seconds ormore) following the initial reception of the caller waiting ID signals.

The control circuit 76 includes a field programmable gate array (FPGA)microcontroller U2 and supporting components. EPROM U1 comprises areprogrammable configuration PROM for the microcontroller U2. Softwareis loaded into the EPROM U1 and is loaded into the microcontroller U2during start up. Oscillator X1 is an oscillator which provides acontinuous clock signal and a system clock for the microcontroller U2. Aclock signal from the phone circuitry 38 (FIG. 1B) could alternately beused, but the oscillator X1 provides a known clock signal.

The control circuit 76 also include a 2.5 volt linear regulator U4 whichprovides power to the microcontroller U2. In the illustrative embodimentcomponent U3 is not used. There are also six pins on the interface board74 which are connected to the EPROM U1. These pins allow new software tobe downloaded through a cable (not shown) connected to a computer (notshown) which allows for updates to the software. The interface board 74also includes input pads in electrical communication with the phonecircuitry 38 (FIG. 1B). The interface board 74 also includes output padsin electrical communication with the light valve 64 (FIG. 1B) and thelight source 58 (FIG. 1B).

The following Table I identifies the components on the interface board74. In addition, dotted circuit traces in FIG. 8 illustrate theinterconnection of the components on the interface board 74. In Table Ithe supplier “Digi-Key” is the Digi-Key Corporation, of Thief RiverFalls, Minn.

TABLE I Interface Board Components Designator Description Supplier PartNo. VR1 10K Ohm 3 MM Potentiometer Digi-Key 303UC103ECT-ND R2 5.6K Ohm0603 SMT Resistor Digi-Key 3115.6KGCT-ND R57 5.6K Ohm 0603 SMT ResistorDigi-Key 3115.6KGCT-ND C1 603 0.1 uF Ceramic capacitor Digi-KeyPCC2277CT-ND C2 Not Used C3 Not Used C4 603 0.1 uF Ceramic CapacitorDigi-Key PCC2277CT-ND C5 603 0.1 uF Ceramic Capacitor Digi-KeyPCC2277CT-ND C6 603 0.1 uF Ceramic Capacitor Digi-Key PCC2277CT-ND C7603 0.1 uF Ceramic Capacitor Digi-Key PCC2277CT-ND C8 603 0.1 uF CeramicCapacitor Digi-Key PCC2277CT-ND C9 603 0.1 uF Ceramic Capacitor Digi-KeyPCC2277CT-ND C10 603 0.1 uF Ceramic Capacitor Digi-Key PCC2277CT-ND C11603 0.1 uF Ceramic Capacitor Digi-Key PCC2277CT-ND C12 603 0.1 uFCeramic Capacitor Digi-Key PCC2277CT-ND C13 805 1 uF Ceramic CapacitorDigi-Key PCC2314CT-ND C14 805 1 uF Ceramic Capacitor Digi-KeyPCC2314CT-ND C15 603 0.1 uF Ceramic Capacitor Digi-Key PCC2277CT-ND C16603 0.1 uF Ceramic Capacitor Digi-Key PCC2277CT-ND J1 Phone Connector Nocomponent 0.05″ Solder wires Pitch pads J2 LCD Connector No component0.05″ Solder wires Pitch Pads J3 Header Connector 0.100″ Pitch Digi-KeyA26508-ND U1 Xc18V512SO20C Configuration PROM Digi-Key 122-1240-ND U2Xilinx Spartan II Digi-Key 122-1219-ND U3 Not Used U4 2.5 V LinearRegulator Digi-Key LP39851M5-2.5CT-ND X1 8.0 MHz Oscillator Digi-Key300-7204-1-ND

In FIG. 9, the microcontroller U2 is illustrated separately. In theillustrative embodiment, the microcontroller U2 comprises a XilinxSpartan II manufactured by Xilinx Corporation of San Jose, Calif. Themicrocontroller U2 is field programmable such that a desired interfacewith the phone circuitry 38 can be achieved.

In FIGS. 9A-9C, enlarged views of the microcontroller U2 illustratingthe pin out and pin in configurations are illustrated.

In FIG. 10, an electrical schematic of the microcontroller EPROM U1 isillustrated separately.

In FIG. 11, an electrical schematic of microcontroller cable J3 isillustrated separately.

In FIG. 12, an electrical schematic of OSC X1 (oscillator) isillustrated separately.

In FIG. 13, an electrical schematic of potentiometer VR1 is illustratedseparately.

In FIG. 14, an electrical schematic of decoupling capacitors C10 areillustrated.

In FIG. 15 an electrical schematic of decoupling capacitors C6 areillustrated.

In FIG. 16, an electrical schematic of a 2.5 volt linear regulator U4for the microcontroller U2 is illustrated.

Referring to FIG. 17, a pulsing circuit 108 for pulsing the light source58 is illustrated. The pulsing circuit 108 is configured to pulse adriving current to the light source 58 such that a high current isfollowed by a low current or no current. This pulses the second visualimage 46 (FIG. 3B) from a first intensity (i.e., bright) to a secondintensity (i.e., dim). This reduces power consumption and heatgeneration relative to a constant current. The pulsing circuit 108includes a transistor Q1 configured to cycle current to the light source58 responsive to control signals. In the illustrative embodiment,transistor Q1 comprises an N-channel MOSFET for LED control, availablefrom Digi-Key as part number IRLL-2705CT-ND.

Thus the invention provides an improved portable phone and an improvedmethod for displaying data in a portable phone. While the invention hasbeen described with reference to certain preferred embodiments, as willbe apparent to those skilled in the art, certain changes andmodifications can be made without departing from the scope of theinvention as defined by the following claims.

1. A portable phone comprising: a handset comprising a system configuredto generate an image and to vary an orientation of the image; and asensing device on the handset capable of detecting at least threedifferent orientation positions of the handset and to provide at leastthree different electrical outputs to the system for selecting theorientation of the image.
 2. The portable phone of claim 1 wherein thesystem comprises an electro optic system configured to project the imageon a viewing surface separate from the handset.
 3. The portable phone ofclaim 2 wherein the handset and the electro optic system are configuredto control one or more of a location, a size and a focus of theprojected image by moving the handset about an ear of a user.
 4. Theportable phone of claim 3 wherein the handset includes a speaker, amicrophone, and a front surface, and the electro optic system isconfigured to project the projected image along an optical axissubstantially in a direction extending from the speaker towards themicrophone, the projected image capable of containing a line of textoriented generally orthogonally to the front surface.
 5. The portablephone of claim 4 wherein the sensing device comprises a plurality oftilt direction sensors.
 6. A portable phone comprising: a handsetcomprising a speaker, a microphone and a sensing device capable ofdetecting orientation changes of the handset; the handset configured togenerate an image and to change an orientation of the image relative tothe handset in response to the sensing device; the sensing devicecapable of detecting at least three different orientation changes of thehandset; the sensing device configured to produce at least threedifferent electrical results in response to the orientation changes. 7.The portable phone of claim 6 wherein the handset comprises a systemconfigured to generate the image.
 8. The portable phone of claim 7wherein the handset comprises an electro optic system configured togenerate the image and to project the image as a projected image.
 9. Theportable phone of claim 8 wherein the handset and the electro opticsystem are configured to control one or more of a location, a size and afocus of the projected image by moving the handset about an ear of auser.
 10. A portable phone comprising: a handset; an electro opticsystem on the handset configured to project a projected image with avariable orientation on a viewing surface separate from the handset; anda sensing device on the handset in signal communication with the electrooptic system configured to sense an orientation of the handset and toprovide input for orienting the projected image on the viewing surface.11. The portable phone of claim 10 wherein the handset and the electrooptic system are configured to control one or more of a location, a sizeand a focus of the projected image by moving the handset about an ear ofa user.
 12. The portable phone of claim 10 wherein the electro opticsystem comprises a light valve or an emissive display configured togenerate the projected image.
 13. The portable phone of claim 10 whereinthe electro optic system comprises an element selected from the groupconsisting of a liquid crystal display (LCD), an emissive display, anaddressable patterned LED display, an electroluminescent display, acathode ray tube, and a field emission display.
 14. The portable phoneof claim 10 wherein the electro optic system comprises a liquid crystaldisplay (LCD) comprising a substrate and a plurality of single crystaltransistors incorporated into the substrate.
 15. The portable phone ofclaim 10 wherein the electro optic system comprises a monochromaticlight source in optical communication with at least one lens configuredto project monochromatic light from the handset to generate theprojected image on the viewing surface.
 16. The portable phone of claim10 wherein the sensing device is configured to sense at least threedifferent orientations of the handset.
 17. The portable phone of claim10 wherein the electro optic system is configured to orient theprojected image for viewing from left to right.
 18. The portable phoneof claim 10 wherein the handset is configured for holding proximate toan ear of a user and the projected image comprises alphanumeric dataoriented by the electro optic system to read from left to right.
 19. Aportable phone comprising: a handset; an image projection system on thehandset configured to project a projected image from the handset onto aviewing surface physically separate from the handset; a controller onthe handset configured to control the image projection system to orientthe projected image; and a sensing device on the handset in signalcommunication with the controller configured to sense an orientation ofthe handset and to provide input to the controller for orienting theprojected image on the viewing surface.
 20. The portable phone of claim19 wherein the image projection system comprises a monochromatic lightsource in optical communication with a light valve in signalcommunication with the controller, and at least one lens in opticalcommunication with the light valve configured to project monochromaticlight from the handset.
 21. A portable phone comprising: a handsetconfigured for holding proximate to an ear of a user; and a projectionsystem on the handset configured to project a projected visual imagefrom the handset on a viewing surface physically separate from thehandset viewable and readable by the user with the handset heldproximate to the ear; the projection system comprising a monochromaticlight source in optical communication with a light piping element and atleast one lens configured to project monochromatic light from thehandset to generate the projected visual image on the viewing surface,the handset and the projection system configured to control one or moreof a location, a size and a size and a focus of the projected image bymoving the handset about the ear by the user.
 22. The portable phone ofclaim 21 wherein the projection system comprises a light valveconfigured to rotate the projected image to a selected orientationrelative to a front surface of the handset.
 23. The portable phone ofclaim 21 further comprising a controller on the handset configured tocontrol the light valve to achieve the selected orientation of theprojected image.
 24. The portable phone of claim 21 further comprising asensing device on the handset in signal communication with thecontroller configured to sense an orientation of the handset and toprovide input to the controller to achieve the selected orientation ofthe projected image.
 25. The portable phone of claim 21 wherein thesensing device is configured to sense at least three different positionsof the handset.
 26. The portable phone of claim 21 wherein the sensingdevice is configured to sense at least four different positions of thehandset.
 27. The portable phone of claim 21 wherein the light pipingelement comprises fiber optics.